GENERIC NAME: HYDRALAZINE - ORAL (hi-DRAL-uh-zeen)
BRAND NAME(S): Apresoline
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication relaxes and expands blood vessels and is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time(s) each day. Take with food or milk to avoid stomach irritation. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, and nasal congestion may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. Though unlikely to occur, inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, muscle pain, swelling of the hands or feet, yellowing of the eyes/skin, joint pain, a change in the amount of urine. This drug may cause numbness or tingling of the fingers and toes. If this occurs, notify your doctor. A vitamin B6 supplement (pyridoxine) may be recommended. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before you take hydralazine, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart or blood vessel problems, kidney disease, any drug allergies. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Hydralazine is excreted into breast milk. Though, to date, no problems have been noted in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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